23 Best Tourist Places in Goa

With 35 beaches and sunny weather, the 110-kilometer-long coastline of Goa gets the most attention. Naturally so! Goa indeed has some of Asia’s top beaches that consistently get high ranks on many lists. Many of them are busy places with hotels, resorts, villas, cafes, restaurants, beach shacks, massage parlors, and plenty of water sports. You will also find serene bays and hidden coves that are lined with palm trees. You can relax, sunbathe, and play beach volleyball. Many of Goa’s splendid beaches are hilly.

But Goa offers much more than its beaches. Visit Old Goa, for example. Very close to Panaji, it is fondly referred to Rome of the East as the city has many impressive cathedrals, churches, towers, and other structures, many of which are UNESCO Heritage listed. The body of St. Francis Xavier is preserved at the Bom Jesus Basilica here. Mandovi River runs along the city. On its opposite banks, you will find the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India and home to many species of birds, bats, crocodiles, and crabs.

Goa’s history goes back a long time like the rest of India. While most of the country was under British occupation and the Mughals before that, Goa was a Portuguese colony until 1961. Several Maratha kings have also ruled the state in different times. You can feel Goa’s history in its many forts – Aguada, Chapora, Cabo de Rama, Reis Magos, Corjuem, Mormugao, and Tiracol. Many of them are in ruins, but you can still see the bastions and cannons. Most of these forts offer fabulous sea views. Fort Aguada has the oldest lighthouse in Asia, which you can still see.

To see Goa’s Portuguese heritage, visit the Fontainhas neighborhood or Latin Quarter in Panjim. It has many art galleries, old buildings with red tiled roofs and projecting balconies, and bakeries. In the evening in Panjim, you can go to a casino on the Mandovi River.

Goa is also a happening party destination. You will find some of India’s most popular nightclubs here, including Titos, Mambo’s, Curlie’s, Hilltop Vagator, LPK, and others. Dance deep into the night and enjoy lip-smacking food. Elsewhere, visit Dudhsagar Falls to see one of Asia’s largest waterfalls and the Grande Island for snorkeling and diving. Here are the best places to visit in Goa:

Map of the places to visit in Goa

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#1 – Agonda Beach

Agonda beach in South Goa is a must-visit. 39.2 kilometers from Margao, this is an isolated stretch of sand lined by palm groves. It is a very quiet, peaceful, and picturesque beach with few tourists. There is a turtle center in the north, and rocky outcrops in the south. Developed tourist infrastructure! You will find many shops, cafes, beach shacks, bars, restaurants, yoga centers and massage parlors. But you will still get a less “touristic feel” here.

Agonda has been ranked as “Asia’s #1 beach for 2018” according to the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice® awards. It was ranked Asia’s 4th best beach in 2016 as well.

Best time to visit, what to do – November to February. Most beach shacks are temporary structures that will open only in the winter.

#2 – Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada is an old 17th century Portuguese fort in north Goa. It is at the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea on top of a hill. The Portuguese constructed this fort as a defense against the Marathas and the Dutch. There is a deep dry moat here and a 13-meter-high lighthouse, which was constructed in 1864. Many buildings within the fort are still in very good condition.

From Aguada, you can get awesome views of the shoreline, the Arabian Sea, Mandovi River, and even the city of Panaji, which is on the other side of the river.

Best time to visit, what to do – During the winter and monsoon. There can be rain and a strong wind in the monsoon, but you the sea and river view will be even better when it rains.

#3 – Chapora Fort

The Chapora fort is in North Goa, close to Vagator beach. The Chapora River meets the Arabian Sea here. Chapora fort is a must-visit for those who love Bollywood Hindi movies. The famous Bollywood movie “Dil Chahta Hai” was filmed here. The fort is almost in ruins now, but it still offers incredible views of the river and the coastline. Take a picture – there are many photo opportunities here!

• Distance from Panaji – 21.7 kilometers by the NH66.

Best time to visit, what to do – Winter and the monsoon. You will have to walk to the top for the views, which may be difficult in the summer heat. Make sure to spend time in the beautiful Vagator beach while you visit Chapora.

#4 – Dudhsagar Falls

Close to Goa’s border with neighboring Karnataka, Dudhsagar is one of Asia’s largest waterfalls. It cascades down for 1017 feet from a steep mountain face and is the wildest during the monsoon months. You can see it if you take a train from east or south India. But the best experience would be to trek down through the forest and reach the waterfalls. You will find many viewpoints along the way. There is a natural pool at its base where you can swim for a fascinating experience.

Dudhsagar Falls is surrounded by Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and the Mollem National Park where you have the chance to see wildlife.

Best time to visit, what to do – During the rainy season. The waterfall will be the most powerful at this time. Also, visit the Devil’s Canyon, which is a picturesque river gorge and a nearby spice plantation.

#5 – Baga Beach

Baga beach in North Goa is one of Goa’s most popular beaches. The Baga River is in the north. Calangute beach, also popular, is in the south. The Baga-Calangute stretch is one of the longest sandy shores in Goa. You will find many beach shacks, pubs, restaurants, shops, nightclubs and water sports activities, including banana riding, speed boats, paddle boarding, paragliding, surf boarding, and more. Britto’s at the northern end of the beach is a famous shack. Club Tito’s and Cafe Mambo are two famous Goa nightclubs, both in Baga.

Best time to visit, what to do – Throughout the year. Dine at Britto’s, enjoy dancing and the nightlife at Club Titos, watersports on the beach. Baga to Candolim is the most popular stretch in Goa.

#6 – Anjuna Wednesday Market

Started by hippies in the 1960s, the Anjuna flea market is a landmark in Goa. It is at the southern end of the Anjuna beach. The Anjuna flea market is open on Wednesdays between 9 AM and 6 PM. There are more than 500 stalls selling handicrafts, handmade jewelry, Kashmiri and Tibetan goods, bags, clothing, tribal artifacts, and more. There are food stalls, bands playing jazz and rock music.

Best time to visit, what to do – The flea market is open on Wednesdays, only during the peak tourist season. Spend time on the beautiful beach. There are rave and trance parties, full-moon parties in the winter.

#7 – Basilica of Bom Jesus

The body of St. Francis Xavier is kept preserved at the Bom Jesus Basilica in Goa. It is one of the most important tourist attractions in Goa, and a landmark for Catholics from around the world. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is an UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Church was constructed in baroque style in 1605. The Saint’s body was brought here in 1622, and it has since then been laid in a glass mausoleum. There is also a gallery of Modern Art in the Basilica.

• Timings: 9.00 am — 6.30 pm
• Distance from Panaji – 12 kilometers by the NH748.

Best time to visit, what to do – Throughout the year. Also see the nearby Se Cathedral, Church of St. Cajetan, Archaeological Museum, and the Viceroy Arch in Old Goa.

#8 – Thalassa Restaurant

The Thalassa restaurant is in Vagator, North Goa. It serves the best Greek and Mediterranean food in Goa. Good décor and awesome views of the Arabian Sea! Good music in the evening. The meat platter, mock tails, baklava, vegetable moussaka, mushroom saganaki, chocolate cake, and the chocolate cheesecake are some of the favorites here. Their seafood, including prawns, and calamari are also legendary. See the sunset with a drink if you are in North Goa. You may want to stay back till dinner.

Best time to visit, what to do – You can hire a boat and visit the Chapora Island or cross the Chapora River and visit the Morjim beach on the other side. It is an Olive Ridley turtle nesting site.

#9 – Mapusa Market

Mapusa is a vibrant and bustling market between Anjuna and Baga beach. You will find everything here from fresh vegetables, fruits, groceries, sausages, pickles, clothing, shoes, spices, meats, fish, jewelry, coir mats, home décor items, and handicrafts. The best part – this is not a touristy market as the locals come here to shop, which means, the prices are much lower. You will get the same things at almost 50 percent lower price. Go early in the day to get the best fruits and vegetables or late in the evening to get the best prices.

Best time to visit, what to do – Mapusa is technically a Friday market. But you will find many of the stalls open throughout the week. Of course, it is always the busiest on Fridays. From the Mapusa market, you can visit the nearby Acoi marshland where you will see many birds. You can also do fishing here on walk on the many hiking trails.

#10 – Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

The Immaculate Conception Church is in Goa’s capital Panaji. It is very close to the Latin Quarter, which is another must-see place to visit. This is a Baroque-style Catholic church with a beautiful interior and grand façade. The interior is colorful and has an elegant décor. The main alter is dedicated to Mother Mary. To the right of the main altar, you will see a chapel of St. Francis Xavier.

See the zigzagging stairway, Augustinian bell, carved altars and pulpits, marble statues of St. Peter and St. Paul. On 8th December every year, the church hosts a feast with a lot of fervor.

• Timings: 10 am — 12.30 pm, 3 — 5.30 pm

Best time to visit, what to do – Throughout the year. Relax at the Panjim promenade, visit the Campal Gardens, Latin Quarter, and the nearby Miramar beach.

#11 – Latin Quarter

Goa’s Old Latin Quarter or Fontainhas is in Panaji. It gives you a peek into the state’s rich Portuguese heritage and culture. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, walking through the narrow winding lanes and streets. You will see many old buildings with red-tiled roofs and projecting balconies that provide a distinct Mediterranean feel. You will also find beautiful shops, bakeries, restaurants, and art galleries.

Best time to visit, what to do – The winter’s low temperature will make walking more comfortable. See the architecture. Visit the bakeries and boutiques.

#12 – Naval Aviation Museum

The Naval Aviation Museum is at Dabolim in Vasco da Gama, just behind the international airport. This is the only Naval Aviation Museum in India and unique in Asia.

There is both an indoor and outdoor section with exhibits that include bombs, rockets, aircrafts, parachutes, protective gears, armaments, outfits of pilots and much more.

Best time to visit, what to do – There is a lake just behind the museum that has a heart shape. It is aptly called the Heart Lake.

#13 – Casino in Panjim

Casino gaming is big in Goa. In Goa, you will find both land-based and off-shore casinos, on ships. Many casinos are located just off Panjim, on the Mandovi River. Famous casinos in Goa are Deltin Royale, Casino Paradise, Deltin Jaqk, Casino Carnival, Casino Pearl, Casino Pride, and Casino Paradise.

There is live music, dancing, and entertainment shows, apart from the usual games – Indian Flush, poker, black jack, and baccarat.

Best time to visit, what to do – Most casinos charge an entry fee, but free playing coupons are included with this. Winter is the most popular season. But most casinos are open at other times of the year as well. Wear smart casuals.

#14 – Grande Island

Grande Island or Ilha Grande is in the Arabian Sea, off the coast of Vasco da Gama. There are ferry services from the mainland. You can do scuba diving, reef diving, snorkeling, swimming, fishing, and dolphin watching. There are many water sports activities to enjoy. It’s a great place for both beginner and advanced divers and snorkelers.

You can explore ship wrecks, including the Suzy wreck, the Davy Jones Locker, Turbo Tunnel, Bounty Rock, and the Serge City. Professional instructors are available. There are banana boat and bumper boat rides too. Just carry your swimming and beach essentials. You can also go on a daylong fishing trip from 8 in the morning to 4 in the afternoon, and finish off with a barbecue.

Best time to visit, what to do – The Grande Island is a short distance away from the Bogmallo beach, which is behind the airport. The sea can be choppy in the monsoon. Winter is the best season to visit.

#15 – Go Kart Racing

Go karting is great fun. The sport is becoming very popular in India. There are two tracks in Goa, at Nuvem in South Goa, and Arpora in North Goa. The Nuvem track is the largest in India. The 482 meters track is on a hill, just behind the Tata Motors Showroom. There are many turns here, some more complicated than others, which the skilled drivers will especially love. There is a huge bulletin board that displays the racing data.

The Nuvem track is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. The North Goa track at Arpora is shorter, and has fewer turns.

Best time to visit, what to do – Enjoy go karting throughout the year. The tracks, though, may be closed in the monsoon when it rains a lot.

#16 – Paragliding in Arambol

Arambol in North Goa is a good place for paragliding. Take off from a rocky headland and get an amazing view from the top. You have to trek to the top of the headland. Your pilot will then give you brief instructions and explain the safety precautions. Fly sky high over Arambol and see the shoreline from the top, the sea, and the interiors. It will be a memorable experience.

Best time to visit, what to do – There is a famous banyan tree on the Arambol Mountain where The Beatles had come to meditate. Keep walking to reach an ayurvedic wellness center nearby.

#17 – Hill Top Club in Anjuna

Anjuna’s Hilltop is one of Goa’s top nightclubs. It is known for its trance music and rave parties. It is wonderfully decorated with lights and boasts a large place for dancing. There is also a swimming pool. You will find many visiting DJs from England, Sweden, Italy, France, Russia, Germany, Israel, and India. In the peak season, the large club can host thousands. Located on a hilltop between Anjuna and Ozran Beach, it also offers fabulous views of the sea and the surrounding villages.

Best time to visit, what to do – Parties are held between November and January. Hilltop Anjuna also hosts a New Year’s Eve party.

#18 – Arambol Hippie Festival

Arambol in North Goa was popular with the hippies. They are long gone, but you will still find the hippie spirit here. You can hear the songs and stories of their times. You can feel the free spirit. Music brings a whiff of fresh air at the Drum Circles in Arambol, where the locals and tourists come together to enjoy music, dancing, and drumming to remember the days of the hippies.

Best time to visit, what to do – The winter. Visit the nearby Kalacha beach. Surrounded by trees, it remains almost completely empty. There is a small sweet lake just behind the beach.

#19 – Fort Cabo De Rama

The Cabo de Rama Fort is in South Goa, 17.2 kilometers from Agonda Beach. This old fort has been held by the Portuguese, Hindu, and Muslim monarchs at various times. There was a chapel and commandant quarters within the fort during the Portuguese days. There was also a military barrack here. It was turned into a prison for a short time after the Portuguese left. Now it is in ruins, but is still a popular tourist spot. You will get very good views of the sea and the surrounding landscape from the top. The Cabo de Rama Fort is a great place to see sunsets.

Best time to visit, what to do – There is some hiking to be done, so it can be difficult in the summer and monsoon. There are several viewpoints here offering 360-degreee panoramic views.

#20 – Terekhol Fort

The Terekhol or Tiracol Fort is in extreme North Goa, on the northern side of the Terekhol River. It is actually in the neighboring state of Maharashtra, as the state lines pass through the middle of the river. But many tourists from North Goa visit the fort. There is a ferry service from Querim.

It was constructed in the 17^th century by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle, a Marathi ruler. The fort sits on a hill and gives a commanding view of the river and the sea. There was a barrack and 12 guns here, but the fort still fell to the Portuguese. They extensively revamped Terekhol in 1764 and held it for strategic maritime defense till 1961 when Goa became a part of India.

Best time to visit, what to do – The fort has now been wonderfully revamped and turned into a heritage hotel.

#21 – Amboli Waterfalls

Amboli in the Western Ghats is an “Eco Hot-Spot” as there are many unusual fauna and flora here. The Amboli Ghat waterfall is 78.2 kilometers from Panjim. It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Western Ghat hills. The best time to visit the waterfall is just after the monsoon months. There is a lot of greenery and mist. The drive through the hilly road is beautiful. You will hear a roar when you come close to the falls. It is worth taking the two hour road trip from Panjim.

Best time to visit, what to do – Visit during the monsoon. Spend at least a night at the waterfalls. There are quite a few resorts nearby.

#22 – Palolem Beach

Palolem is one of the southernmost beaches of Goa. This crescent-shaped beach is lined with many palm and casuarinas trees. There is a small backwater at the northern end where you can kayak or boat to reach the Floating Rock, a unique rock formation. Close to Palolem, there is the small Butterfly Beach, which always remains empty. You can also visit the Canacona Island. Relax at Palolem, enjoy the sights, or party at Neptune Point. Every Saturday, there are Silent Noise parties here.

Best time to visit, what to do – The winter months between November and January. Relax on the beach or explore the backwater. Enjoy Goan, Konkani, or global cuisine. Visit the Canacona Island. Party at Neptune Point.

#23 – Best Villa in North Goa

You will find many luxury villas for rent throughout Goa. However, some of the best ones are to be found in the north, like the Surya Villa at Candolim. This is a luxury 4-bedroom villa for rent at Candolim with a private swimming pool, garden, BBQ, and direct beach access. The house has a traditional Portuguese façade and lavishly decorated interiors.

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Agonda has been ranked as “Asia’s #1 beach for 2018” according to the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice® awards. It was ranked Asia’s 4th best beach in 2016 as well.